Chapter Summary

Eliphaz's discourse continued.

Discussion Questions for Job, Chapter 5

1. Chapter 5 is a continuation of Eliphaz's counsel which started in chapter 4. Read through the chapter and discuss any recurring or repeated words that stand out. What are some of the most important ideas in this chapter? Explain your response.
2. In the first few verses of chapter 5, verses 1-7, Eliphaz seems to ask Job who he will turn to that will justify him. What seems to be the main idea of Eliphaz's counsel to Job in these verses? What would you say is the tone of his words? How does our tone impact the things we say to those around us?
3. In verses 6-7, Eliphaz says, "For affliction does not come from the dust, nor does trouble sprout from the ground, but man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upward." (ESV). How can we understand these words and what impact do they have on our own lives?
4. In verses 8-18, Eliphaz next proceeds to give his solution to Job. What does he say? Is the counsel he gives true? What makes you say this?
5. Eliphaz seems to take an extended meditation on God in verses 8-20. Pay attention to the many verses that tell about what He does. What stands out from Eliphaz's words about God? If you were to describe God to a friend, what words would you say?
6. In verses 17-18, Eliphaz talks gives his counsel to Job in light of his circumstances. What does he advise Job to do in these verses? Is this good counsel? In considering the justice of God, are the words that he says here generally true? Why or why not?
7. Following his meditation on God and His ways with people, Eliphaz points to the outcome of the man who trusts in God in verses 21-26. What specific things does Eliphaz point to in these verses as evidences of God's favor? How might you describe the favor of God?
8. Again, in considering Eliphaz's words to Job in verses 8-26, Eliphaz seems to be reflecting on the wise and fatherly care of God. Though He sends sickness, famine, war, wild beasts, etc., God is providentially and sovereignly working in all things to bring about His ultimate plan. Do you think this is true? How have you experienced this personally? Do you know of anyone who has faced such trials and has come out with a stronger faith as a result?
9. Eliphaz seems to be saying that Job is being punished for some unconfessed sin, so the best thing for him to do is to confess this so that God's favor may rest upon him again. Do you believe that there is a connection between sin and suffering? How so? Is this always the case?
10. For all of Eliphaz's kind words, in the end, his remarks are actually a painful reminder of Job's suffering and loss. Read verses 18-26 again. As Job sits and suffers, reflecting on his circumstances, what does Eliphaz's words communicate to Job? What can we look to in difficult times for true hope and comfort?

Key Words/Phrase

Chastisement, v. 17.

Characters

God, Eliphaz, Job.

Strong Verse(s)

2, 8, 17, 18.